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Andrews Grounds Maintenance/Snow Removal Questions
| 1 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 4.14.1 |
| Issue |
| Position Title / Personnel Clarification |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Paragraph 4.14.1 is titled “Personnel Manager”, should this be “Project Manager”? |
Paragraph 4.14.1, last sentence refers to “Quality Control Inspector”. Does the Government require a full time “Quality Control Inspector”, who has no other duties?
| Government Response |
| Please see revised PWS for clarification. |
| 2 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 4.14.1.1 |
| Issue |
| Position Clarification |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Paragraph 4.14.1.1 states that the contractor should have a contract manager”. Is this in addition to or the same as the position of “Personnel Manager”? |
| Government Response |
| Please see revised PWS for clarification. |
| 3 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 4.14.3 |
| Issue |
| Position Clarification |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Paragraph 4.14.3 refers to the position of “Security Manager”. Should this be construed to mean that the contractor is to provide a “full time” Security Manager? |
| Government Response |
| Please see revised PWS for clarification. |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Schedule “B”, pages 3-28 requires data to be listed in each column; however the “file” does not accept [of] numbers. Can the file be changed to permit entry of required pricing information? |
Can we please get a version of the SF1449 / Price Schedule / PWS either in MS Word or MS Excel, as we do not have PDF editing capabilities?
| Government Response |
| A word document with the pricing schedule will be posted. |
| 5 |
| Reference |
| PWS - Workload |
| Issue |
| Licensed arborist, horticulturist or landscape architect |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Workload does not appear to support the employment of a full time licensed arborist, horticulturist or landscape architect. Can these services be provided via sub-contractor on an as needed basis? |
| Government Response |
| Services provided by a licensed arborist, horticulturist or landscape architect shall be provided to fulfill responsibilities as set out in the PWS and QASP. |
| 6 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.2.1 |
| Issue |
| Clarification grass height |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| One sentence indicates grass is to be cut yearly ‘NOT TO EXCEED’ 24 inches in height, another sentence states that grass is cut to “2-4’ inches – however, does not specify if grass is to be maintained at that height (if so this will require greater frequency). Please clarify. |
| Government Response |
| The scalable maps A3 and A4 show areas of the Brandywine and Davidsonville sites in dark green that are to be maintained between 2-4” along the roadsides, within and around the fenced compounds in dark green and areas in a lighter green color to be maintained not to exceed 24”. |
| 7 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.3.1 |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Other USAF installations with much less VIP visibility than AAFB, requires daily policing. At these sites, workload data indicates more than a man year required for 400+ acres. Does AAFB have a similar expectation? |
| Government Response |
| Policing refers to removal of debris as indicated in PWS Paragraph 1.3.1. Policing shall be performed as an integrated part of other tasks. When work is performed, policing shall also be performed in the same area. |
| 8 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.3.3 OVER AND ABOVE SERVICE |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Can find no place in schedule “B” to price this service. How is SP compensated? |
| Government Response |
| There is a CLIN for Unscheduled type of work that is funded yearly which, when approved by the CO or QAP, can be used to pay for over and above services. |
| 9 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.1, 1.2 |
| Issue |
| Semi-Improved Grounds |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Paragraph 1.1 refers to Improved Grounds and Paragraph 1.2 speaks to “Un-Improved Grounds”, however find no mention of “Semi-Improved Grounds”. Is this an oversight? |
| Government Response |
| Levels of service have changed. “Semi-Improved Grounds” have been changed to Un-Improved Grounds. The term “semi-improved” has been deleted from the PWS. |
| 10 |
| Reference |
| PWS Appendix E |
| Issue |
| Fuel storage authorization |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Are there any fuel tanks that will be GFE? If so are there both diesel and gas and what size are they? |
If there are no GFE fuel tanks will we be allowed site our own? Is the contractor allowed to place fuel tank(s) in Grounds Compound?
| Government Response |
| Equipment, such as diesel and gas tanks or anything else at the on-site shop, is not supplied by the Government. |
If in compliance with local and federal environmental laws/regulations, the contractor will be allowed to have bulk fuel storage at the contractor bed down site. For regulations see appendix E of the PWS.
| 11 |
| Reference |
| No references |
| Issue |
| Lack of background information |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Please advise the annual value of the current contract. |
| Government Response |
| Annual Value as Awarded Actual Annual Value |
Base $ 745,199.00 $1,137,457.16 Option I $1,342,140.00 $1,866,863.88 Option II $1,342,140.00 $2,065,304.00 Option III $1,342,140.00 $2,331,899.00 Option IV $1,342,140.00 $3,253,971.89
The difference stems from modifications and additional requirements.
| 12 |
| Reference |
| No reference |
| Issue |
| Lack of historical data |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| In order to develop more realistic cutting frequencies, required to maintain the grass at stated heights, please identify from “historical” data or experience months of “growing” and “non-growing” season. |
| Government Response |
| The contractor must comply with listed PWS grass heights. See climatic factors sheet: most spring, fall and summer months the grass will grow when the temperature remains above freezing and it is not excessively dry. 33 cuts per year is average and approximately 3 cuttings a year to mulch up residual leaves and uneven growth spots but the contractor must comply with the requirements of the solicitation regardless of the number of times stated here. |
| 13 |
| Reference |
| No reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Are liquid deicers allowed and can they be stored on base? |
Can Contractor use liquid ice melt or does melting agent have to be granular?
| Government Response |
| Liquid deicers may not be used on base. |
| 14 |
| Reference |
| No reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Is there a retainer fee paid or minimums to the contractor for staging equipment on site? |
| Government Response |
| The grounds shop and staging area are provided for the contractor to stage equipment used to meet the contract requirements. The contractor will not be paid to stage equipment. Each line item shall include all costs associated with that particular line item to include equipment. |
| 15 |
| Reference |
| No reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Are there any size, length and width restrictions on roads during plowing operations? |
| Government Response |
| 1.11-1.11.6 provides specific requirements for snow and ice removal. |
| 16 |
| Reference |
| No reference |
| Issue |
| Grounds Maintenance |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Is the equipment shop and staging area free or is there rent to be paid for the site use? What about utilities? |
| Government Response |
| 3.1 Facility 3257 and utilities are furnished. |
| 17 |
| Reference |
| Solicitation |
| Issue |
| Grounds Maintenance |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Are there any restrictions on hours of operation other than holidays on any of the locations in the RFP? |
| Government Response |
| 4.6 Specifies hours of operations near occupied residential structures. |
| 18 |
| Reference |
| No reference |
| Issue |
| Secured Area Access |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| How long does it normally take to get into a secured area? |
| Government Response |
| Badged contractor employees will have immediate access to secured areas (within a minute or two). Escorted employees performing scheduled tasks will have to wait up to 30 minutes before accessing secured areas during normal business hours. Military activities may preclude movement on base and entry into secured areas in which case scheduled grounds contract activities will be rescheduled. |
| 19 |
| Reference |
| No reference |
| Issue |
| Storage Davidsonville/Brandywine |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Can equipment be stored at the Davidsonville and Brandywine facilities? |
| Government Response |
| Equipment may be stored at the Davidsonville and Brandywine facilities. However, the facilities are not covered; the contractor is responsible for securing their equipment. |
| 20 |
| Reference |
| Solicitation |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Throughout the solicitation it is stated that materials (mulch, salt, etc.) are reimbursables under the contract yet there is a cap on the amount to be reimbursed. What happens when the cost of the materials exceeds the cap amount in the contract? If we are to include these amounts in the contract, will the government remove the reimbursable language for all materials from the scope of work and specify what materials are going to be paid for? For example, does the reimbursable material include roundup for weed control, chemicals to be used on turf for weed control? |
| Government Response |
| We will not remove the reimbursable language for all materials from the scope of work. Each line item shall include all costs associated with that line item to include chemical costs. |
| 21 |
| Reference |
| No reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| How can the contractor estimate the required number of chemical applications that will be needed during a snow/icing event and include the amount of materials in the estimate? |
| Government Response |
| The contractor should be able to estimate the amount of snow removal material needed. |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Is the turf to be treated for broadleaf weeds? Is a crab-grass pre-emergent required on all turf areas? |
Is broadleaf weed control required on the turf? If so where in the solicitation does it indicate so? If so is it required on all improved turf?
Was broadleaf weed control on the turf a requirement that last contract?
| Government Response |
| 1,1.1.5 Weed control includes broadleaf weeds/pests. How weeds are controlled is up to the contractor. |
1, 1.1.5 Pest and disease free grass is to be provided as part of the contract in improved grounds.
Yes, it was part of the last contract.
| 23 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Are there any courtyards in any of the buildings which need to be maintained? If yes, can detail be provided? I.e. square footage of turf, of ornamental beds, paved surfaces? |
| Government Response |
| There are no courtyards within any buildings associated with this requirement. |
| 24 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.5.1 |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Who provides and installs the annual flowers and bedding plants? If the contractor is to provide and install the annual flowers, please provide answers to the following: |
- How often are the annuals replaced?
- Based on past experience, what is the square footage of the annual beds and flowers required?
| Government Response |
| Flowers may be bought as a reimbursable item if approved by the CO or QAE. Twice annually the annuals shall be replaced. Existing flower beds will be maintained. There are less than 750 sf. Annual flower beds which is included into tallies for 1.1.5.1, 1.1.8 and 1.5.1. |
| 25 |
| Reference |
| Solicitation |
| Issue |
| Site Visit Attendees |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Can a list of attendees to the site visit be published on FBO? |
| Government Response |
| A list of the attendees will be posted in a separate document. |
| 26 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Please locate and identify, by physically showing and labeling clearly on a map, the Path Finder Fence. Also show and state the actual area to be maintained in square feet. |
| Government Response |
| The Pathfinder Fence surrounds the air field, runway and other associated buildings and grounds. The Pathfinder fence is shown as a dotted red line on Map A1. Grounds areas to be maintained within the fence are dark green on Map A1 in the legend are labeled “Contract (Inside Pathfinder) 37.16 Estimated Acres” Grounds to be maintained inside of the Pathfinder Fence 37.16 estimated acres. Map A2 shows the Pathfinder Fence in black and has the snow removal areas color coded as shown on the legend. |
| 27 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Please locate and identify the soil test sites and state the number of soil tests taken during the last five years and their results. |
| Government Response |
| The areas are to be tested in accordance with PWS 1.1.6.4 and Appendix A. |
| 28 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Please locate and identify, by physically showing and labeling clearly on a map, the Impasse Fence. Also show and state the actual area to be maintained in square feet. |
| Government Response |
| 1.1.12, MAP A1, The Impasse (basically picket) fence is fancy base perimeter fencing which borders the base along Allentown Rd, shown in map A1 and labeled, “Contractor fence line maintain as improved grounds”. Estimated 5340 linier feet of Impasse fence mainly borders areas and is accounted as improved grounds. The grounds require maintenance at the 1.1.1 standard because it mainly runs through improved grounds by the hospital and in front of wing headquarters. On Map A1 the Impasse fence starts at the corner west of building labeled 1050 and runs northeast approximately 5340 linear feet. |
| 29 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Please locate and identify, by physically showing and labeling clearly on a map the Base Fence Line. |
| Government Response |
| There are many fences and fence lines that are part of this requirement most are located in Improved Grounds and should be cared for as required in 1.1.3. Base fence lines that surround the base perimeter that do not border improved grounds and are not cared for as Improved Grounds shall be cared for as Unimproved Grounds 1.2.2 these areas are shown on MAP A1 as a thick green line and are labeled “Contract Grounds Outside Fence Maintain as Unimproved Grounds not to Exceed 24”. Base perimeter fence lines that border yellow, pink and dark blue areas on base/of the base are not part of this requirement. |
| 30 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Issue |
| Base unimproved Grounds |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Please locate and identify, by physically showing and labeling clearly on a map the Base unimproved grounds. |
| Government Response |
| Base unimproved grounds are labeled on map A-1 as “Contract Unimproved 69.50 Estimated Acres” On the map Unimproved Grounds are shown in Purple and the cumulative total of the purple areas is 69.50 acres. |
| 31 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 4.13.4 and 4.13.5 |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Please identify all items that are reimbursable and/or items that the government pays the contractor, which are not listed in Paragraph 4.13.4 and 4.13.5. |
| Government Response |
| CO and QAP shall authorize the purchase of materials considered “allowable costs” for reimbursement. Reimbursable items will be paid in accordance with PWS Paragraph 4.13.5. Quantities have been removed from the pricing schedule, since the contractor shall be reimbursed for materials authorized by CO and QAP. |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Please locate and identify by physically showing and labeling clearly on a map any restricted areas that require the proposed grounds maintenance which is above and beyond normal Base access. |
| Government Response |
| Within the Pathfinder Fence lie the only areas of this requirement where escort or issue and possession of restricted area badge is necessary beyond normal base access requirements. On MAP A1 the Pathfinder Fence is shown as a red dotted line and on MAP A2 the Pathfinder Fence is shown as a black dotted line and is described in the legend. |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Is the pathfinder fence currently being maintained in accordance with contract standards? If not, will it be up to standards by the start of the new contract? |
| Government Response |
| The pathfinder fence is currently maintained in accordance with contract standards. |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Is maintaining the inside of the pathfinder fence the responsibility of the new contractor? |
| Government Response |
| Maintaining areas shown on Map A-1 as “Contract (Inside Pathfinder) 37.16 Estimated Acres” is the responsibility of the new contractor. |
| 35 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Are the athletic fields currently being maintained in accordance with contract standards? If not, will they be up to standards by the start of the new contract? |
| Government Response |
| Yes, the athletic fields are currently maintained in accordance with contract standards. |
| 36 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Issue |
| Ditches/Water Retention Ponds |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Are the ditches and water retention ponds currently being maintained in accordance with the current contract? If not, will they be up to standard at the start of the new contract? |
| Government Response |
| The ditches and water retention ponds are currently maintained in accordance with the current contract. |
| 37 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Are we required to mow areas in which erosion has created an unsafe work environment? |
| Government Response |
| If unable to mow with a tractor employ other safe means to accomplish the requirement. Please report all unsafe work areas to the CO or QAE immediately. |
| 38 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Are we required to mow phragmites? |
| Government Response |
| Phragmites that grow in improved or unimproved grounds should be mowed as ground conditions permit and in accordance with the requirements of the PWS for improved or unimproved grounds. Notify the QAE prior to mowing any fully grown phragmites. |
| 39 |
| Reference |
| Solicitation |
| Issue |
| Questions and Proposal Due Date |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Will the questions be answered in a timely fashion where the industry will have adequate time to formulate their bids? |
| Response |
| The proposal due date will be extended accordingly to allow for sufficient time. |
| 40 |
| Reference |
| Solicitation |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Bid item 0015 and 0016 Snow and Ice Removal, Are snow and ice removal firm fixed price or indefinite quantity? |
| Government Response |
| Snow and ice removal items are all firm fixed price. |
| 41 |
| Reference |
| Solicitation |
| Issue |
| Snow and Ice Removal inside Path Finder Fence |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Bid Item 0016 Snow and Ice Removal inside Pathfinder Fence, Is snow and ice removal only required on the 32 acres of grounds on the contract or does it include some airfields? |
Is the unit Square Yards correct for the estimated hard surface (snow removal) area inside the Path Finder fence?
| Government Response |
| Map A2. Snow and Ice Removal inside Pathfinder Fence consist of parking lots, roads and walkways. No air fields are included. |
156,681 estimated square yards is correct for paragraph 1.8. Map A2. Snow and Ice Removal inside Pathfinder Fence consists of parking lots, roads and walkways. No air fields are included.
| Issue |
| Plowing Outside Gates |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Is there any plowing outside of the gates past the guards? |
| Government Response |
| Map A2, A3 and A4 shows areas where snow/ice removal is to take place. There are areas where snow is to be removed past the guards. |
| 43 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Is electric available to plug in winter equipment? |
| Government Response |
| 3.1 Facility 3257 electrical supply may be used to support equipment electrical needs if possible without modifying or overloading current electrical system. |
| 44 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Is pre-treating roadways and lot allowed? |
| Government Response |
| Not unless notified to do so by the CO or QAP. |
| 45 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.1.6.1 |
| Issue |
| Seeding/Overseeding/Top Dress as Work Order |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| 1.1.6.1- Pricing schedule list this section in Clin 0001 but SOW indicates that these services are “issued as a work order”. Please clarify if these services should be included in the unit price for Clin 0001 and subsequent option years. |
| Government Response |
| With work orders we will direct where, when, and which 5 acres we want to have Seeding/Overseeding/Top Dress performed. Pricing should be included in the base price for 5 acres of Seeding/Overseeding/Top Dress and subsequent option years. See Appendix A. |
| 46 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.4.1.1 |
| Issue |
| Bracing/Cabling and /or removing of cabling of newly installed trees when installed by others |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| 1.4.1.1 – Clin 0003 indicates that 1.4.1.1 should be included in the pricing. Is the contractor responsible for bracing and cabling any newly installed trees regardless of whether planted by the contractor or others? Likewise is contractor responsible for adjusting and removing if installed by others? |
| Government Response |
| Yes, in accordance with work load data, Appendix A. |
| 47 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.4.3 |
| Issue |
| Service included in unit price |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| 1.4.3 – Clin 0003 lists 1.4.3 “Removal of Trees and Shrubs” as a requirement of that Clin. The SOW indicates “a work order will be issued for the removal of trees and shrubs”. Please clarify if these services should be included in the unit price for Clin 0003 and subsequent option years. |
| Government Response |
| Pricing should be included in the base price for estimated amounts of services as shown in PWS Appendix A. With the work order we will direct where, when, and which stumps and shrubs are to be removed. Add total price for service listed in 1.4.3 “Removal of Trees and Shrubs” to Clin 0003 and subsequent option years. |
| 48 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.13.1.2 |
| Issue |
| Possibly missing specifications for top dress, seed mix and rate of application |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| 1.13.1.2 Maintenance Requirement; is there a specification for the top dress material and seed mix or a specified rate of application for this requirement? |
| Government Response |
| Application rates depend on manufacture’s recommendations for products being used. The rate of application shall be as listed by the manufacturer for establishing a new lawn. The grass mix shall be 10% Kentucky Bluegrass and 90% Tall Fescue. |
| 49 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraphs 1.1.8, 1.5.1, and 1.1.5.1 |
| Issue |
| Mulch for improved grounds and bedding/planted areas the same? In which CLIN will pricing be included? |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Is the mulch mentioned in 1.1.8 and 1.5.1 the same mulch? If so which Clin should the pricing be included in, 0001 or 0005? |
Same question would apply to 1.1.5.1 and 1.5.1 Weeding?
| Government Response |
| 1.1.8. Mulch. Pricing should include cost for effort involved in removal of decayed mulch and adding new mulch. 1.5.1. Pricing should include cost for effort involved in maintenance of the bedding and planted areas and tasks listed therein but should not include price for mulching. 1.1.5.1. Pricing should include cost for effort involved in routinely maintaining bedded areas. |
| 50 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.4.1 |
| Issue |
| Trimming and Pruning |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| 1.4.1 Trimming and Pruning; who determines which trees on base get pruned, the government or the contractor? |
| Government Response |
| 4.3.1, 4.3.1.1 calls for a work plan and a work schedule, trimming and pruning should be addressed in the work plan and work schedule which is to be provided by the contractor. The contractor determines whether trimming and pruning is required in accordance with the PWS. If necessary the CO or QAE may also determine trees to be trimmed/pruned. |
| 51 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.1.6.4 |
| Issue |
| Clarification for area that requires fertilization |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Is it correct that the fertilization program 1.1.6.4 is only required on 20 acres of turf? If so who determines or what 20 acres get fertilized? |
| Government Response |
| With the work order the government will determine and specify where, when and which 20 acres are to have fertilization performed. |
| 52 |
| Reference |
| Solicitation |
| Issue |
| Reimbursement for Snow Removal Preparation |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Is there any reimbursement for snow removal preparation? What happens if there are no events? How is the contractor to be compensated for his cost involved for having snow removal equipment purchased, prepared and available for service to this contract? |
| Government Response |
| The contractor shall furnish all personnel, labor, equipment, transportation, tools, materials, supplies, supervision, quality control, management and other items and services necessary to perform grounds and landscape maintenance services & improvements, to include snow and ice removal services. There is not reimbursement for preparation nor is there payment if there is no snow. Costs for equipment and preparation should be included into the proposal as overhead and spread over monthly line items. |
| 53 |
| Reference |
| Solicitation Pricing Schedule |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Please clarify how contractor will be compensated for snow removal. If plowing is to commence at ½” and it snows 5 inches areas may be plowed at least 2 if not 3 to 4 times. Will contractor be compensated for one 4.1 to 8 inch event or multiple ½ to 4 inch events? |
| Government Response |
| 1.11 If there is a 5” snow event the contractor will be compensated for one 4.1 to 8 inch event. |
| 54 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.2.5 and Appendix A |
| Issue |
| Clarification of workload data for Drainage Ditches |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| 1.2.5. Is there really 1,088 acres of Drainage ditches? Please clarify? |
| Government Response |
| 1,088 is a tally of acreage where grounds maintenance on drainage ditches is to be provided. These areas are within the contract grounds portion of Andrews AFB, Brandywine & Davidsonville sites and are less than 1% of the total grounds. |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Will reasonable time be given for leaf removal, for example, a certain amount of workdays to complete one rotation of the improved areas? |
| Government Response |
| 4.3, 4.3.1 The contractor shall maintain a work plan that provides the overall approach to ensure scheduled and unscheduled maintenance activities are accomplished in a manner that will maintain healthy, disease-free, well manicured landscapes. Suggest accomplishing a work plan with a schedule for leaf removal. Leaf removal shall be accomplished at least weekly in all improved areas. CO or QAP may on occasion direct the contractor to perform leaf removal more often than scheduled. |
| 56 |
| Reference |
| Map 1”On Base Grounds Maintenance” |
| Issue |
| Path Finder Fence area |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Map for grounds maintenance shows the area size of maintenance inside the Pathfinder Fence twice as 32.16 acres. Is this the total area size or are there two areas of 32.16 acres? |
| Government Response |
| All of the grounds inside of the pathfinder fence that pertain to this requirement have been tallied together and the total is 37.16 acres after adding the new ASA Complex to this requirement. |
| 57 |
| Reference |
| Map 1”On Base Grounds Maintenance” |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Who maintains the areas indicated as “NER” on the grounds map? If this is not part of the Service Provider’s responsibility could we please learn why not and will it later become part of the contract? |
| Government Response |
| The National Executive Route (NER) grounds are maintained by the CE grounds shop and will not later become a part of the contract. |
| 58 |
| Reference |
| Map 1”On Base Grounds Maintenance” |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| The airfield mowing is not part of the contract. Who mows this area and will it later be added to the contract? |
| Government Response |
| CE grounds shop mows the air field grass shown in yellow on map A1. The Airfield will not become a part of the contract. |
| 59 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Some of the concrete drainage culverts had lots of debris, dirt piles and vegetation in them. Will these be cleared prior to contract start? If not and there is a requirement for clearing them after contract start, how will this be reimbursed? |
| Government Response |
| 1.2.5. Improved grounds vegetation will need to be cut or removed from concrete drainage ditches and should be accomplished on a routine basis. Leaves may accumulate in low areas and in culverts and should be removed during leaf removal operations. |
| 60 |
| Reference |
| Site Visit / Improved Areas |
| Issue |
| Bindweed in coniferous shrubs at HQ building |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| At the HQ building area we saw a large amount of bindweed in the coniferous shrubs. Will this be cleared out prior to contract start? |
| Government Response |
| Weeds shall be removed as required in the PWS paragraphs 1.1.5.1 and 1.5.1. |
| 61 |
| Reference |
| Site Visit / Improved Areas |
| Issue |
| Infestation of clover in improved turf areas |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| The improved turf areas had large infestations of clover, an indicator of poor soil fertility and or cultural practices. Will turf areas be rid of these weeds and other broadleaf weeds by contract start? |
| Government Response |
| With the wet spring some aspects of the grounds maintenance have not been completed yet. Some repairs will be re-accomplished by the utility contractor and other repairs will be made in time by the grounds contractor. Not all of the clover will be gone by the time the contract starts. Weed control in turf is an ongoing effort. |
| 62 |
| Reference |
| No Reference |
| Issue |
| Turf Renovation Plan |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Will there be an opportunity after contract start for the Service Provider to present a turf renovation plan to the Government – Andrews AFB being the high profile base that it is? |
| Government Response |
| We are not interested in anything that is not called for in the solicitation. |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| The standards we observed on the site visit; are these acceptable standards applicable to the new contract? |
| Government Response |
| Contractor is expected to comply with the requirements set forth in the PWS. |
| 64 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 3 |
| Issue |
| Government Furnished Equipment and Services |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Are roll-offs provided by the Government and if yes, how frequently can they be replaced with empty ones? |
| Government Response |
| Government will provide roll-offs for disposal of organic waste generated during grounds maintenance on an as needed basis. |
| 65 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 3 |
| Issue |
| Government Furnished Equipment and Services |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| The government furnished building at the grounds shop looked in need of repairs. At contract start will all damage and required work be listed in the presence of the contractor? Will the contractor be the facility manager? |
| Government Response |
| The government is attempting to make minor repairs to the building. The contractor may request that all damage and required work will be listed in the presence of the contractor. The contractor will not be liable for damage unless they are at fault. The contractor will be required to comply with safety and environmental regulations. |
| 66 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.1.6.1 |
| Issue |
| Clarification of top dressing requirement |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Topdressing specifications. Typically, before topdressing is applied, soil samples are taken to determine the soil particle range sizes to match up topdressing particle sizes to that of the soils. This is done to avoid layering of the soils and the associated problems. Will this be a requirement? |
| Government Response |
| 1.1.6.1. The soil is mainly rock and sand. The contractor is required to determine what is necessary to obtain the outcome requested in the PWS. |
| 67 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.1.6.1 |
| Issue |
| Existence of irrigation system |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Are there any irrigation systems at Andrews AFB, and if yes who determines when and how much turf is irrigated? |
| Government Response |
| No irrigation systems are in use at this time. |
| Issue |
| Snow barn, storage of ice removal, access |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| We saw a snow barn nearby to the grounds facility. Is this the location where we will store snow and ice removal agents? Does anyone else have access to materials located here, such as CE? |
| Government Response |
| The snow barn (salt Barn) is located near the grounds facility. The snow barn facility may be used to store dry ice/snow removal agents. Yes, the facility is an open facility and CE may have access to contractor provided (reimbursable) salt not to exceed 1% of the barns capacity per snow event. |
| 69 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.1.12 and 1.1.1 |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| On the site visit we were not shown the “Impasse Fence Line (1.1.12). Where is this fence and why does the grounds associated with it require maintaining as 1.1.1 standard? |
| Government Response |
| The impasse (basically picket) fence is base perimeter fencing which borders the base along Allentown Rd. The grounds require maintenance at the 1.1.1 standard because it mainly runs through improved grounds by the hospital and in front of wing headquarters. |
| 70 |
| Reference |
| Solicitation Pricing Schedule |
| Issue |
| Clarify CLIN structure |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| CLINs XX15AA and XX16AA – “Ice & Snow Event”. What are we pricing here? There is some confusion as the CLINs that follow (XX15AB-AE and XX16AB-AE) require pricing for specific snow depth ranges. In CLINs XX15AA and XX16AA; is it ice and snow, just ice, what depth of snow? |
| Government Response |
| CLINs XX15AA and XX16AA require pricing for removal of frozen precipitation on paved surfaces ice or snow less than ½”. CLINs have been corrected. |
| 71 |
| Reference |
| Pricing Schedule |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Will the Service Provider be paid for snow and ice removal CLINs even if no snow removal is performed due to no annual snow fall? |
| Government Response |
| The Service Provider will not be paid for snow and ice removal CLINs if no snow/ice removal is performed due to no annual snow/ice fall. |
| 72 |
| Reference |
| Pricing Schedule |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| If the Service Provider performs snow removal in excess of any of the individual CLIN quantities, how will they be reimbursed? |
| Government Response |
| If more snow events occur than are listed in the estimated work data the government would fund additional events at the same rates. |
| 73 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.10, 1.11 |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Will the use of anti-icer / pre-storm applications of anti-icers be required? |
| Government Response |
| The use of anti-icer / pre-storm applications of anti-icers is not required. |
| 74 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.10, 1.11 |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Apart from anhydrous Sodium Acetate, what other anti-icing or de-icing products are approved for use on roads, parking lots, sidewalks and steps? |
| Government Response |
| The Government prefers the contractors use bulk road salt and Dry Magnesium Chloride. |
| 75 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.10.1, 1.11,1.10.2, 1.10.3 |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| What width of plow swath is considered appropriate for each direction on an initial pass of the plow unit? |
| Government Response |
| 1.11, 1.11.1, 1.11.2, 1.11.3, 1.11.4, 1.11.5, 1.11.6 all detail levels of service due to the complexity of winter type storm events we require that these levels of service be adhered to. It is up to the contractor to determine how to meet our requirements as long as it is safe. |
| 76 |
| Reference |
| PWS Appendix A |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| The workload data for snow removal states “45.7 miles.” Is this one direction or the combined distance of lanes each side of the road / both directions? |
| Government Response |
| Square feet and linear feet estimates are also listed on map A2, A3 and A4 in order to aid with estimation and pricing. Most of the 45.7 miles of roads are 2 lane 2 way. |
| 77 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.11, 1.11.1 |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| After initial clearing of Priority 1 snow removal areas, what are the criteria, in a continuing snow fall scenario, for the Service Provider to re-plow / clear the Priority 1 areas? At what depth of new snow or timeframe will re-plowing / clearing be required? |
| Government Response |
| 1.11, 1.11.1 Priority 1 snow removal areas are to be continuously maintained. |
| 78 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.11, Pricing Schedule |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| In PWS item 1.11 snow removal operations begin at ¼” (one quarter inch), however, the bid schedule requires pricing to start at ½” (one half inch). Which is correct? |
| Government Response |
| PWS item 1.11 snow removal operations should state 1/4”. Pricing Schedule 0015AA, 1015AA, 2015AA, 3015AA and 4015AA wording will be changed to “Ice & Snow to ½” Event” |
| 79 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.11.1 |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| In PWS item 1.11.1 - “Adjacent Sidewalks”. Does this include sidewalks leading to building entrances, or do building managers clear these? |
| Government Response |
| Contractor shall clear walkways to building entrances and exits. |
| 80 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 1.11 |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| In PWS item 1.11. Are Priorities 2 – 4 to be started after Priority 1 areas and cessation of snowfall? Or is one pass of the Priority 1 areas to [be] made whilst snow is falling and then one pass to be made of each of the other Priorities whilst snow is falling? |
| Government Response |
| 1.11, 1.11.1, 1.11.2, 1.11.3, 1.11.4, 1.11.5, 1.11.6 Lays out the priorities and how surfaces are to be maintained. Some areas have to be maintained concurrently and have to be completed concurrently. |
| 81 |
| Reference |
| PWS Paragraph 4.13.4, 4.13.5 |
| Issue |
| List of non-reimbursable materials |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| Reimbursable Materials / Over & Above – can the Government provide a list of what is not reimbursable? Also, in the event that the monetary amount will be exceeded, possibly because of a very harsh snow and ice season, how will the contractor be reimbursed for purchases in excess of the “NTE” amounts? |
| Government Response |
| CO and QAP shall authorize the purchase of materials considered “allowable costs” for reimbursement. Reimbursable items will be paid in accordance with PWS Paragraph 4.13.5. Quantities have been removed from the pricing schedule, since the contractor shall be reimbursed for materials authorized by CO and QAP. |
| 82 |
| Reference |
| Pricing Schedule |
| Issue |
| Possible error in quantities |
| Questions/ Discussion |
| We noticed: |
0015AC 4.1 inches to 8 inches 3 EA 0016AC 4.1 inches to 8 inches 1 EA Please clarify
| Government Response |
| Correction. 0016AC…. 4.1 inches to 8 inches should read 3EA not 1 EA. The PWS has been changed. |